COUNTRY / PROBLEM
Senegal, a former French colony, gained independence in 1960 and is now one of the most stable democracies in Africa. The population of Senegal is over 15 million, and over 60% of its citizens are under 25 years of age.
Over 95% of Senegalese citizens are Muslims, a religion which requires them to learn the Quran. It is a common practice in this country to send children to Quranic schools, where students (ar. talibe) are learn the required religious knowledge.
About 100,000 boys attending Quranic schools in Senegal are destined to terrible living conditions every day. They are often forced to beg in the streets for meals for themselves, as well as for money for their Quran teachers. According to the International Labour Organization, such street begging reflects one of the worst forms of child labour.
ORGANISATION
Maison de la Gare is a non-governmental organization that was founded in 2007 and operates in the Senegalese city of Saint-Louis. It provides support to the Talibe, both to those who go out to the streets every day between their Quran lessons to beg for food and money, and those who have escaped from their schools and now live on the street. The mission of the organisation is to help children who are forced to beg and who are abused by their teachers (marabouts) at illegal Quran schools.
The beneficiaries of the Maison de la Gare have access to vocational training (including tailoring), as well as to physical and artistic activities, including football and karate. The educational offer varies depending on the skills of the volunteers present. Children also receive, where possible, other support: whether that be clothes, shoes, meals, or the necessary medical or psychological help.
PROJECTS
The Kulczyk Foundation is supporting Maison de la Gare by helping to build a boarding school for girls and boys. Ultimately, this will act as an asylum for children saved by the employees of the organization during their night patrols on Saint-Louis’ streets.
The school will be a destinatation where students will acquire general knowledge. Quran lessons would be held there, and - for older pupils - vocational classes would be conducted. Children would also acquire skills that would help them find a job in adult life.
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